Deacons' Doings

Mark 10:13-16New Century Version (NCV)Jesus Accepts Children13 Some people brought their little children to Jesus so he could touch them, but his followers told them to stop. 14 When Jesus saw this, he was upset and said to them, “Let the little children come to me. Don’t stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to people who are like these children. 15 I tell you the truth, you must accept the kingdom of God as if you were a little child, or you will never enter it.” 16 Then Jesus took the children in his arms, put his hands on them, and blessed them.

When asked to share a deacon endeavor near and dear to her heart, Jan Boehme instantly thought of Circle of Concern’s Birthday Club. Here is an excerpt from a letter to Jan:

…the Birthday Club is so very special because it’s a program that helps our clients who might have to choose between purchasing food for their family or a birthday gift for their child. Unfortunately food always wins. The Birthday Club gives parent/grandparents peace of mind in that their children will be able to celebrate his/her special day with gifts and a cake.  

The Birthday Club is designed for Circle client’s children age one through eleven. About two week before each child’s birthday, the parent is called to ask what new toys the child would like. Each toy is then wrapped in birthday paper, and books or puzzles are also included, and the gift is usually topped with a new stuffed animal. Our supply of toys consists primarily of the items left over from Circle’s Annual Toy Day Program held in December, and donations from the public throughout the year.

 In addition to the gifts, each parent is also given a Birthday Bag that includes cake mix, frosting, paper plates, cups, napkins, invitations, candles and occasionally party favors (many times there are themes such as Spiderman/Frozen/ Dory). We try to give each child an age appropriate bag. The Circle’s Birthday Club has been going strong since 1997 – to date we have given out and wrapped approximately 13,000 gifts. We are always looking for new toys for children (ages 1-11) and items for Birthday Bags. 

As you can see, this is an incredible program that truly makes a difference in the lives of Circle children. Please consider adding this program to your weekly/ monthly giving. Donations can be placed on the Circle of Concern table outside of Pastor Jim’s office (there is a box labeled Birthday Club).